Delhi releases draft environmental policy focusing on climate change and renewable energy
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai unveiled a draft of a new environmental policy, aiming to combat the effects of climate change through various initiatives. The plan includes creating an “environment health cell” to tackle diseases linked to climate change, expanding solar power generation, and developing waste-to-energy plants.
The draft action plan, which will be submitted to the Centre in the next two weeks, highlights a vulnerability assessment showing high vulnerability in Northeast, East, and South Delhi, while New Delhi, Central, and North Delhi have a lower vulnerability index.
The policy outlines health adaptation plans for air pollution-related diseases, disaster management for heatwaves and coldwaves, and water-borne and zoonotic diseases. It ensures accessible healthcare services with a 10% buffer in bed capacity and aims for 100% coverage of health interventions for vulnerable populations.
Energy efficiency is a key focus, with a target of 100% saturation of LED bulbs, tube lights, and energy-efficient fans by 2030. Smart meters will be installed for all consumers by DISCOMS as part of the Department of Power’s Vision 2041.
The policy targets seven critical sectors: energy, water, waste management, green cover, transport, health, and agriculture, aiming to identify and control sources of climate change.
The draft also includes measures to promote solar energy, improve waste management, enhance green cover, and increase electric vehicle use. Infrastructure will be adapted to withstand climate-related stresses, including underground power distribution and flood-resistant urban planning.
The proposed policy, developed with input from over 40 departments and experts, will be reviewed and revised based on feedback before implementation. A core group and a steering committee led by the chief secretary will oversee the policy’s development and execution.